Man, woman and 8-year-old killed on train tracks in Springfield – NBC4 Washington

A young man, a young woman and the woman’s 8-year-old son were struck and killed by a train on elevated tracks in Springfield, Virginia, Wednesday night, friends of the victims told News4.

Fairfax County police say they are still notifying the victims’ families, so News4 will not immediately release their names. The man and woman were friends and once classmates at Annandale High School, friends said.

They were struck by a Norfolk Southern freight train on Accotink Park Road in Lake Accotink Park around 8:30 p.m. A witness called 911.

“They told her that she saw someone walking on the tracks and that someone had been hit,” said an emergency dispatcher.

When the rescue workers arrived, their worst fears were confirmed: three bodies were found on the ground beneath the elevated tracks.

“We have received reports of three people whose fatal accident was confirmed by the fire department because they were hit by the train,” said the dispatcher.

The woman who was killed posted a photo on Instagram showing her son on the railroad trestle looking out at the lake and dam below. Shortly after the photo was posted, the train came through.

It is not known why the victims were on the tracks.

A regular visitor to the park said that the trains usually sound their horns as they approach a nearby pedestrian overpass and the railroad bridge truss.

One visitor said he had seen people on the trails before, including running and training.

Norfolk Southern employees were on site Thursday taking photographs as the investigation continues.

Norfolk Southern said in a statement: “Our thoughts are with the families and loved ones of those involved in this tragic incident. We are offering support to our train crews involved and are cooperating with law enforcement in the ongoing investigation.”

“When you see tracks, you should always think of a train”

Train safety advocates say it is never safe to walk on train tracks.

“Trains can come on any track at any time and from any direction,” said Jennifer DeAngelis of Operation Lifesaver. “When you see tracks, you should always think of trains and make those safe decisions for yourself and the community.”

Today’s trains are not as noisy as they used to be. Freight trains in particular do not necessarily run according to schedule.

Railway bridges and gantry cranes only have space for trains to pass through. However, there are two tracks on this bridge.

Friends of the victims said they plan to meet for a vigil in the park on Thursday evening.

According to police, the victims are two children and one adult.

Stay with NBC Washington for more details on this developing story.